Ghana is currently grappling with a severe cholera outbreak, having recorded a total of 4,155 suspected cases and 35 deaths since October 2024 According to Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
As of December 23, 2024, the outbreak has tragically resulted in 35 deaths, raising alarm among health officials and the public alike. Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), provided these updates in a statement issued on December 24, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures.
The Western Region has emerged as the most affected area, accounting for a significant portion of the reported cases and fatalities. With 17 deaths attributed to cholera in this region alone, local health authorities are intensifying their response efforts to contain the spread of the disease. The GHS has emphasized the importance of early reporting of symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting to facilitate timely medical intervention and reduce mortality rates.
In light of the ongoing outbreak, health officials are urging communities to adopt proper hygiene practices to curb transmission. Dr. Denis Laryea, Deputy Director of Public Health at GHS, reiterated that “when patients report early, there’s an opportunity to manage them effectively.” He stressed that prompt medical attention is crucial in treating cholera, which can be fatal if left untreated. The GHS is actively working to educate the public about recognizing symptoms and seeking help immediately.
Statement from the Ghana Health Service on Cholera Outbreak in Ghana
Ghana Health Service Press Release
Ghana Health Service Press Release cont’d
Since the initial declaration of the cholera outbreak in October, which began in the Greater Accra Region, the disease has spread to several other regions including Eastern and Central Ghana. The rapid spread has raised concerns about sanitation and access to clean water in affected areas. Many communities rely on unprotected water sources, which significantly increases their vulnerability to waterborne diseases like cholera.
To combat this outbreak, health authorities have implemented various measures including increased surveillance and rapid response teams deployed across affected districts. Additionally, a cholera vaccination campaign is set to be launched to provide protection against the disease. Dr. Kuma Aboagye noted that while vaccination is an important tool in managing outbreaks, it must be complemented by improved sanitation and hygiene practices.
Cholera Outbreak in Ghana: Comments from Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye (Ghana Health Service D-G)
Between 30th November and 19th December 2024, an Oral Vaccination campaign was conducted in the Awutu Senya East, Ahanta West, Effia-Kwesimintim, Sekondi-Takoradi, and Shama metro/municipals, which are the hotspots. A total of 662,906 persons have been vaccinated out of 792,482 eligible population.
After the vaccination campaign, the number of reported cases in those districts have declined steadily. Awutu Senya East has not recorded any confirmed case after the vaccination exercise,.
As we enter the Christmas season, we are entreated to drink potable water, eat food that is hot, wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming, and wash our hands with soap under running water before preparing food, before eating, and after visiting the toilet (and washroom) or changing diapers and after touching surfaces, he said.
